Bob Neal

Bob Neal took the fairway to Heaven on Thursday, July 20, 2017. He was 78 years old. He was born September 15,1938 in Mansfield, Arkansas to John Allen and Cleo Marie Neal.

Bob loved to play golf and was invited to try out for the Pro Am tour, although he decided there were too many unknowns to support his family. He was able to play and still shoot two or three under until late last year. He and his golfing buddies have been playing tourneys around the state for 30 years. It wasn't unusual for an 18-hole Saturday to turn into a 36-hole day.

He was very athletic all of his life. He played baseball when he was younger and fast pitch softball in church leagues. He was scouted for both! It didn't matter whether he was shooting pool, playing tennis or flag football with his family, or any other sport, he always excelled.

Bob was a wonderful father. He always made his children feel loved and safe. He spent hours doing homework at the kitchen table, watching them play sports, kickball in the cul-de-sac, swim, and practiced with them too. He was always interested in anything his kids did and was committed to helping them be successful.

Bob had a kind heart, was a Christian, and loved his family. They were always welcome in his home whether it was for an afternoon or a month, or however long they desired. He was the second oldest of seven brothers and sisters. Everyone says the same thing about Bob. He was a fierce protector and made those around him feel safe.

He was in the Navy and traveled the world. He was a member of Local Union 155, the plumbers and pipe fitters union. His work took him out of state but he always wanted to return to Arkansas and retired here in his home state he loved so much.

He is survived by two daughters, Julie Ann White (Richard) and Monika Neal-Rued and their mother, Mikki Pierce; two bonus daughters, Michele Weaver (D.J.) and Stephanie Thiemann (Kevin); grandchildren, Jack White, Pierce Rued, Tracey, and Jamie Weaver, Soren, Hudson, and Annie Thiemann; brothers, Don Neal, Jerry Neal, and sisters Corinne Harris, Judy Neal; and several extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna Neal; brother, Ted Neal; and sister, Peggy Rouse.

He was loved and he will be missed.

A celebration of Bob's life, with a reception to follow, will be held at 6:30 p.m., Monday, July 24th at Smith - North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main Street.
Online guest register at www.SmithFamilyCares.com